Posts Tagged Internet Security

We have entered an era of smart devices where from washing machines, TV’s to refrigerators and AC’s everything is connected with the internet. As per reports by Cisco, the number of devices connected with the internet will exceed 50 billion by 2020. However, there are certain risks associated with IoT devices which every user must be aware of. Here we have listed some of them which demand user’s attention.

Security Risks

There are a number of loopholes associated with IoT security, which a hacker takes advantage of. Security attack can be categorized into network, physical, software and encryption attack, each of which has its own consequences.

Physical attacks target hardware of an IoT system and attackers physically harm the device to disrupt the services.

Network attack on the other hand aims at disrupting the network layer of the device. DDoS attack is an example of network attack.

Software attack is launched on the software with an intention to steal information & exploit the device.

Encryption attacks target the implementation of algorithm on which the device works.

So, the user must possess thorough knowledge of the types of security risks and attacks to take preventive measures well in advance.

Legal Risks

Legal issues related to product liability can arise. For example, if an autonomous car gets into an accident, who shall be held liable? Now this is a legal issue as it is difficult to figure out whether the owner, manufacturer, passenger or the person who coded the software is at fault.

Privacy Risks

Since a lot of factors influence data protection, there are a variety of privacy risks associated with IoT. The number of cyber-attacks is soaring high and this has become a serious issue as nowadays most devices are connected to internet making it easier for cyber criminals to steal the information. This information can be applied to infer certain results or to be sold in the dark market which might be used against the IoT device user.

Lack Of Authentication/ Authorization

A lot of vulnerabilities could lead to this issue. Lack of complex device password & two factor authentication, insecure credentials etc. are more like an open invitation to cyber criminals to hack the devices and disrupt the operations.

Other Risks

Insecure Cloud Interface

Complexity

Insecure Mobile Interface

Insecure Network Services

IoT devices now play a mainstream role in our lives, and have become a major part of our official & personal space. Thus, it is important to take a note of all the risks associated with IoT in order to understand the impact they can have on us. It is high time that we take necessary measures to mitigate the risks associated with IoT so that we can enjoy maximum benefits that technology offers us.

The use of wireless internet technologies for surfing various web pages has been increasing for a long time due to the ease and convenience that it offers to users. People are no longer sticking to fixed broadband lines connected to a fixed operating system and are instead accessing the internet through portable devices like laptops, tablets, phones, etc. Many places these days we have wi-fi connections that can be accessed by procuring the requisite username and password from the owners either by paying a certain fee or even free of cost in some cases.

This kind of free access to the internet at public places is making web surfers more prone to virus attacks that may be made through the openness offered by wireless internet systems. Anyone in the vicinity who is able to receive the wi-fi signal can simply log on to the network especially if it is being offered free of cost. In such a network, there can be all kinds of security lapses that may put your system at the receiving end of virus attacks. There are some tips mentioned below to help you avoid such attacks or at least help reduce their incidence:

Before logging onto any kind of free internet at a public place, you should ensure that the network is protected by the required firewall and antivirus software so as to build a multi protected layer for your operating system. There should be a strong IT department taking care of such requirements. You should beware of connecting your laptop the internet in the vicinity without checking for security problems that the internet may have.

It is advisable not to access websites and fill in your username and password at sites that contain private information about you that if stolen, may pose a significant threat to you. You should refrain from opening bank related websites or shopping websites where you need to fill in credit card related information.

It is essential to have good antivirus software installed on your operating system to help ward off virus attacks. Although not completely fool proof, such software can help reduce the number of attacks that your system may be subjected to.

For complete system and network protection tips, feel free to contact us at Centex Technologies. We serve Central Texas including Killeen, Austin and Dallas.

Internet has opened a gateway of knowledge to us. With a click of mouse, you can come to know what is happening thousands of miles away from you. With internet communication has become easy and convenient. However, like any other technology, internet has also been used widely by the hackers and other anti-social groups. The biggest threat that we face on internet is from virus attacks, identity theft and hacking. However, if you avoid doing the following things when you are online, you can save yourself from hackers and virus attacks.

Avoid logging in to any websites when you are using a shared wireless network, there is a chance that a hacker can steal your password. If you want to login, make sure that you have a firewall turned on.

While using any banking website, make sure that you are using web pin or using your mouse to enter the passwords from the set of characters instead of entering them by typing in the required area. This avoids any programs like key logger from recording your key strokes. Most of the banks provide third level of security, use them.

Do not download any unauthorized songs, movie or video clips unless you are sure that the source is genuine.

Do not download attachments from unknown senders, they may contain viruses.

Be aware of phishing mails and never give your personal information like passwords, username, and account number to any emails sent by banks. No banks will ask you this information.

Most of the internet browsers warn users from going to malicious websites. When you reach such website, shut down the browser.

Always check for the security sign of the website. Never do online transactions if the website does not have any https option or if the security certificate is expired.

Store your personal information in an external drive and protect the folder with a password.

Last but not the least, never trust any email claiming that you have won millions of dollars and asking for personal information from you. They are frauds.

By following the above tips, you can definitely avoid any kind of frauds or virus attacks and make an online experience much pleasant.

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Author

Abdul Subhani

I am the President & CEO of
Centex Technologies Microsoft Small Business Specialist, Certified E-Commerce Consultant, Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Fraud Examiner, Virtual Instructor and an IT Consultant/Speaker on IT Security, Networking, Small Business Architect, & SEO Internet Marketing.

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